The Tervueren: An overview of the Belgian Shepherd Dog variety.
The Tervueren is a fascinating variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog, a Belgian dog breed recognized by the FCI. Together with the Groenendael, it forms the long-haired variant of this breed.
General information:
- Life expectancy:** 12 to 14 years
- Weight:** Females: 20-25 kg, males: 25-30 kg
- Size:** Female: 56-62 cm, Male: 60-66 cm
- Colors:** Black, Electricity, Black & Cream, Fawn & Black, Mahogany & Black, Fawn & Liver
- Temperament:** Protective, Attentive, Intelligent, Concentrated, Energetic, Loyal
- Origin:** Belgium
Origin and history:** Tervueren
The origins of the Tervueren go back to the end of the 18th century, when there were a large number of herding and driving dogs with different coats in Belgium. In order to bring order to this diversity, a group of cynologists founded the “Belgian Shepherd Dog Club” in 1891, and under the leadership of Professor A. Reul, the breed was officially created between 1891 and 1897. The following years were characterized by strict selection and standard development. The first detailed standard was established in 1892 and the first Tervueren was entered in the herd book in 1901.
Visual appearance
Characteristic of the Tervueren is its fawn coat with a pronounced black mask and charbonnage. Charbonnage refers to the black hair tips that give the coat a characteristic appearance. The coat varies from reddish-brown to other shades of brown, accompanied by the striking black face mask.
The Belgian Shepherd Dog as an independent breed:**.
Until the end of the 19th century, Belgian Shepherds were considered useful helpers on farms. It was not until the founding of the “Club du Chien de Berger Belge” in 1891 that the breed was recognized. Three varieties were defined: Longhair, Shorthair and Wirehaired. After years of disputes, uniform regulations were introduced in 1990 and the clubs merged to form the Royal Union of Belgian Shepherd Dog Clubs.
Use and character
The Tervueren is a versatile dog. It is valued as a family and guard dog and is also suitable as a guard dog and guide dog for the blind due to its eagerness to learn and intelligence. Its patient behavior makes it particularly child-friendly. The Tervueren enjoys accompanying his family on sporting activities such as agility or bicycle tours.
Physique and characteristics:
The Belgian Shepherd Dog, including the Tervueren, has an elegant build with a light bone structure. The high carried head and square shape give them a proud appearance. In contrast to the German Shepherd, they have a less expansive gait, but better jumping ability and greater speed.
Summary
The Tervueren is more than just a variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. Its fascinating appearance, versatility and character traits make it an interesting companion. Whether as a family dog, working dog or sports partner – the Tervueren has a lot to offer. It is perhaps less well known in Germany than the Malinois, but its calmness and suitability for everyday use make it an enrichment for dog lovers.
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